Abstract vs. Concrete

The younger the child, the more likely they will be to fall under the concrete thinking category. This is why Montessori is so important. The materials used provide a visual and physical connection. So the child can understand and grasp the concept of what it is they are learning. They can see, touch, smell, hear, and experience what they are doing,  that gets them mentally engaged.

When they move into the abstract thinking phase, they already have an understanding and concept of what it is they are learning. They think more outside the box so to speak.